How much do solar panels cost?

1. Solar panels in the UK will vary in cost depending on the type of home you have, the supplier you use and the size of the system you opt for. On average, solar PV installations cost between £1,500 and £3,000 per kW to have fitted to your rooftop.

The average family home will require a 3kW system to generate enough electricity for domestic use. With the feed-in tariff payments too, you stand to make a substantial saving and earning with solar energy.

With a current rate of 15.44p/kWh for new installations, ensure to lock on to the higher tariff rates and compare quotes from solar panel companies in your area.

So, how much do solar panels cost UK?

The cost of solar panels

10 years ago the cost of solar PV probably put many people off an investment. Now, with prices slashed in the last two years and the Government’s payment incentives, solar has become a more attractive alternative to paying National Grid energy prices. Combined, this has helped to see the solar market experience substantial growth.

The below table shows the typical costs for solar panels in the UK, complete with the profit you can make in the first 20 years.

What size solar panel system do I need?

Those living alone are estimated to use roughly 3,000 kWh of electricity annually, meaning a 3kW solar system would be sufficient. However, on these occasions the property is likely to be smaller in comparison, giving space available for just a 1kW or 2kW system.

A similar output of electricity is estimated for a working couple, but with a potentially larger roof space, they’ll be able to house a 2-3kW system easier.

Average families with two or more children can use anywhere between 3,000 and 4,500kWh every year. They would be more suitable for a 4kW system and would probably have the facilities available to fit such a sized system.

Other solar panel costs and fees

As solar panels fitted to your rooftop will have no moving parts, expense and repairs tend to be kept at a minimum. There are some extra costs when considering solar PV though, such as the need to strengthen your roof which could add a further £500.

The design of solar panels specifically keeps them safe from the country’s ever-changing weather conditions. Solar panels therefore are unaffected by wind, rain, snow and other elements. On top of this, you needn’t carry out any maintenance throughout the year.

One of the only things you will need to ensure though is that the solar panels don’t become overshadowed by trees in the future. If they are, it’ll reduce the efficiency of the panels and in turn, the amount you can receive via the feed-in tariff.

Solar panels are even installed at an angle to allow natural rainfall to clean the system. This means dirt and debris can’t accumulate on the panels, improving efficiency. Some installers will even offer self-cleaning solar panels too.

Solar panel planning permission

Planning permission is generally something not associated with solar panel technology. This is, however, different for properties in Conservation Areas, World Heritage Sites or listed buildings. It’s always worthwhile checking with your local council before having solar PV panels installed, otherwise you could be forced to have them removed once installed.

Return of investment with your solar panels

Solar panels may be a significant investment, but there’s every reason you’ll see a huge return and fantastic profit. There are three key stages to how you’ll get a return on your investment:

1. • Electricity savings: Solar PV systems generate free electricity using the sun’s natural energy. Sunlight hitting the panels is converted into DC electricity to be used in the home for all forms of lighting and appliances. In total, the Energy Saving Trust says you can save over £100 a year. As electricity prices continue to rise in the future, you’ll start saving even more.
   • Feed-in tariff payments: The Government-funded feed-in tariff scheme is the chief incentive for those considering solar panels. Every unit of renewable electricity generated, whether used in the home or not, earns homeowners a set amount. The current rate of 15.44p/kWh allows property owners to earn over £600 a year with a 4kW system, based on Energy Saving Trust figures.
   • National Grid exports: Not all the electricity your solar panels generate will be used in the home. Obviously much will be produced during the day and most systems can’t store energy. However, you don’t have to worry because any electricity generated and not used in your home, can instead be sold to the National Grid at a set rate of 4.5p/kWh. This ensures no environmentally friendly energy is wasted.